VIDEO: New NATS video shows the havoc caused by infringements

A video released by NATS has shown the havoc caused when unaware pilots infringe on controlled airspace.

Every year there are more than 1,000 unauthorised entries into controlled airspace – and each one can affect up to 30 airliners, delay 5,000 passengers and cost up to £50,000 in additional fuel burn.

NATS explains, “There is a concentration of infringements in the airspace surrounding Heathrow, Luton, Stansted, Southampton, Gatwick and London City airports. Each of these incidents has a serious impact on airport operations, disrupting arrival and departure procedures, delaying passengers and increasing the workload of controllers and pilots as they take action to ensure the safety of all affected aircraft.”

The video shows the incredible actions of pilots in and around the controlled areas, with one confused flyer taking themselves almost to the threshold of Heathrow’s runways.

Take a look:

Interested in finding out more about getting into the career? A team from NATS will be at Pilot Careers Live at the Sofitel Hotel, London Heathrow on 5 November, ready to explain how you can take the first step to an ATC role. Tickets are available at pilotcareernews.com/live/london/